Google Home adds new camera features and support for Nest Cam Outdoor

Public Preview users can now link their first-generation Nest Cam Outdoor to Google Home and access a couple new features across a variety of cameras.

Jon Bitner     November 30, 2023

Matter adds support for fridges, air purifiers, robot vacuums, and more with massive 1.2 update

The Matter 1.2 update is now available, bringing the interoperability standard to nine new device types -- including robot vacuums, air purifiers, and more.

Jon Bitner     October 24, 2023

A big discount just landed on the Google Nest Doorbell for Prime Day

One of the best Prime Day smart home deals is on the Google Nest Doorbell, which you can grab for just $120 this Prime Day.

A. Morrisey     October 11, 2023

Are smart blinds worth it?

Smart blinds give you remote access to your window coverings, allowing you to schedule their performance and save money on your bills. But are they worth it?

J. Bitner     October 9, 2023

What is a smart lock and how does it work?

A smart lock brings added versatility to your door, letting you open it using a keypad or smartphone app. Here's everything you need to know about smart locks.

J. Bitner     October 6, 2023

8 Google Assistant settings you should disable or adjust

Google Assistant is a powerful tool, but it also comes with some privacy concerns. Here are a few settings you should adjust on your Google device right away.

E. Lawrence     September 11, 2023

What is Android TV? Google’s smart TV platform fully explained

While Google TV is the main TV OS for brands like Sony, there's still a few Android TV devices out there. Here's everything you need to know about the latter.

Michael Bizzaco     September 9, 2023

Google TV vs. Roku TV: which is the better streaming OS?

In the war of streaming platforms, Google TV and Roku TV are top of the pack, but which operating system is truly best? Let us weigh in to help you decide.

Michael Bizzaco     August 29, 2023

Chromecast deals: The cheapest option for Google’s streaming device

If you're looking to join the streaming revolution but don't own a smart TV, we've smoked out the latest Chromecast deals right here.

Lucas Coll     August 16, 2023

The 4 best smart thermostats that don’t require a C-wire

If your home doesn't have a C-wire, there are still some great smart thermostats to consider. Here are a few of our favorites.

Jon Bitner     August 9, 2023

How to get a rebate for your smart thermostat

Getting a rebate for your smart thermostat is a neasy way to save a bundle of cash. Here's what you need to know.

J. Bitner     August 9, 2023

How to broadcast voice messages with Google Nest

Google lets you broadcast audio messages across all your Google Nest smart speakers and displays. Here's how to use the cool feature.

J. Bitner     July 21, 2023

How to save a video to Google Home

Google Home makes it easy to save videos captured by your doorbell or security cameras. Here's how to download the footage to your smartphone.

J. Bitner     July 19, 2023

How to create a room in Google Home

Creating rooms with Google Home is an easy way to organize all your smart home gadgets. Here's how it's done, along with tips on renaming or deleting rooms.

J. Bitner     July 18, 2023

Google Home vs. Apple HomeKit: which is the best smart home platform?

Google Home and Apple HomeKit are two of the most popular smart home platforms in 2023. But which is best for you? Here's a closer look at both to help decide.

Jon Bitner     July 12, 2023

The best Google Home tips, tricks, and Easter eggs

Google Home can do a lot more than you think. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of Google Home and its growing ecosystem of gadgets.

E. Rawes     July 11, 2023

Echo Pop vs. Nest Mini: which is the better smart speaker?

If you're in the market for an affordable smart speaker, the Echo Pop and Nest Mini should be at the top of your list. Here's a look at which is best.

Jon Bitner     June 23, 2023

Are smart lights bulbs worth it?

Smart light bulbs give you several ways to control their performance or alter their appearance. But are they worth the inflated price tag?

J. Bitner     June 22, 2023

How long do video doorbells last?

Video doorbells are great smart home gadgets, but they won't last forever. Here's a look at how long they'll be supported and when they should be replaced.

J. Bitner     June 21, 2023

Google Nest Thermostat (2020) review: A little less, yet still the best

Google's new, stylish Nest Thermostat delivers nearly all of the smart features available in the original Nest Learning thermostat -- for about half the price.

Rich Shibley     June 15, 2023

Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) Review: Don’t hit that snooze button

The Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) solves one of the most challenging issues with wearable sleep trackers thanks to its Sleep Sensing technology.

John Velasco     June 15, 2023

Google Nest WiFi Review: No-hassle mesh networking

The Google Nest Wifi comes to life with whole-home coverage. Google’s option offers a couple of notable features that proves it's a multi-functional device.

John Velasco     June 15, 2023

No, you really don’t need Google Assistant on your smartwatch

Google Assistant is becoming a rarity on smartwatches, and isn't on the new TicWatch 5 Pro. But does it really matter?

Andy Boxall     May 27, 2023

Alexa Guard vs. Nest Aware: which is the better option?

Alexa Guard and Nest Aware are home security branches of Amazon and Google's smart home ecosystems, but which of the two is the better package? Let us weigh in.

Michael Bizzaco     May 12, 2023

The new Google Home app officially launches on May 11

The long-awaited update is making it easier than ever to control your smart devices with the Google Home app.

Jon Bitner     May 10, 2023

GE Lighting launches colorful, customizable rope lights with a built-in microphone

The Dynamic Effects Neon-Shape Smart Lights are compatible with both Alexa and Google Home, and can adjust their performance in real time based on nearby sound.

Jon Bitner     May 9, 2023

Forget ChatGPT — Siri and Google Assistant do these 4 things better

Thanks to ChatGPT, the AI buzz is everywhere. However, don't let OpenAI's rockstar AI trick you into ditching the trusty Google Assistant or Siri on your phone.

Nadeem Sarwar     May 9, 2023

Google Home adds support for garage door controls

The features are only available to select users, but Google Home now allows you to remotely open and close your garage door.

Jon Bitner     May 8, 2023

Alexa vs. Google Home: which smart home platform is best?

Alexa and Google Home are two of the best smart home platforms around, but which one is better for you? Here's a comparison to help you decide.

Jon Bitner     April 25, 2023

4 reasons to look forward to Apple HomeKit and Matter collaboration

Matter represents a major joining of hands across the smart-home landscape, but what does that mean for the future of Apple HomeKit? Here's what we think.

M. Bizzaco     April 25, 2023

Acer’s Halo Smart Speaker with Google Assistant dazzles with its light-up base

The Halo Smart Speaker from Acer is a Google Assistant-powered device that uses DTS Sound to fill space with music, while RGB lights on the base bring style.

P. Hearn     April 25, 2023

Google Nest Audio vs. Google Home

Google Nest Audio is here, but how does it compare to the original Google Home? We take a look at these two smart speakers to see which one best fits your home.

M. Archambault     April 25, 2023

Google Nest Thermostat vs. Google Nest Learning Thermostat

The Google Nest Learning Thermostat is loaded with amazing tech, but it's pricey. At half the cost, is the latest base Nest a better option? Let us weigh in.

Michael Bizzaco     April 25, 2023

You can now ask Google Assistant to tie your shoes with expanded app actions

Google Assistant can now open and search within apps thanks to improved voice controls. You can go hands-free when browsing Etsy, ordering food, and more.

Patrick Hearn     April 25, 2023